Temporary Library Assistant Jobs in Tacoma, WA (NOW HIRING)

Position Description

Seattle University seeks a creative and collaborative Part-Time Temporary Copy Cataloger to focus on the physical copy cataloging of two major gift collections (2000+ gifts) for the Lemieux and Cornish Libraries. Working primarily in Ex Libris Alma, this position will locate, evaluate, import, and adapt bibliographic records from the Orbis Cascade Alliance Network Zone (NZ) into our local Institution Zone (IZ) to ensure physical collections are accurately represented and discoverable via Primo VE. The successful candidate will possess strong technical cataloging skills, experience working in shared bibliographic environments, and the ability to work independently while maintaining a high level of accuracy.

This faculty position, at the rank of Assistant Librarian, reports to the Director, Resource Acquisition and Management (RAM).

Part-time (20 hours per week). This temporary project is expected to be completed by December 19, 2026.

Key Responsibilities

Copy Cataloging & Import into Ex Libris Alma (75%)

• Follow local gift procedures to search existing bibliographic records in the shared Alma Institutional Zone (IZ) and Network Zone (NZ) to identify any duplicate holdings in Cornish and Lemieux Libraries

• Appropriately link, match, and copy bibliographic records to Institutional Zone (IZ) from the Network Zone (NZ) following consortium and local rules to prevent record duplication.

• Import bibliographic records from OCLC (using Connexion or WorldShare) into the Network Zone (NZ) when appropriate and in accordance with consortium policies.

• Edit and upgrade MARC records using Alma's Metadata Editor and OCLC to comply with current cataloging standards including: Resource Description and Access (RDA), and Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH).

• Verify and assign appropriate Library of Congress (LC) classification as well as local call numbers

• Route materials requiring original cataloging, preservation review, or other specialized processing according to established local workflows.

Physical Processing & Inventory Maintenance (15%)

• Create and update physical holdings records and item records in the Institution Zone (IZ) and inputting data including barcodes, copy numbers, shelving locations, and material types, etc.,

• Complete end procession including spine labels, barcodes, and security strips as needed

Project Tracking & Collaboration (10%)

• Track and report weekly processing statistics to the Director of RAM

• Coordinate with permanent staff to resolve conflicts between local IZ policies and shared NZ metadata.

Physical & Work Environment Demands

• Work Location: On-site at the First Hill or South Lake Union campuses.

• Physical Tasks: Ability to sit or stand at a computer workstation for extended periods; capability to lift and move bins or carts of books weighing up to 25 lbs.

Qualifications & Skills

Required:

• Education: Bachelor's degree required; coursework or certificate in library science or database maintenance preferred.

• Experience: Minimum of 1-2 years of experience handling copy cataloging workflows in an academic library.

• Alma Expertise: Hands-on experience navigating Ex Libris Alma, specifically utilizing the Metadata Editor for single-record imports and managing records across the Institution Zone (IZ) and Network Zone (NZ).

• Technical Knowledge: Proficiency with MARC21 formatting, OCLC WorldCat database searching, and Library of Congress Classification (LCC) standards.

Preferred:

• Master of Library Science (MLS/MLIS) from an ALA-accredited institution (or current enrollment in a graduate program).

• Previous experience working within an academic library consortium using a shared Alma Network Zone.

Seattle University's Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse faculty in affirmation of our institutional values and the library's Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Action Plan.

Application Instructions

Applicants must apply at https://www.seattleu.edu/human-resources/careers/ and provide: (1) detailed letter of application identifying the candidate's education, experience, achievements, potential to succeed in the position; (2) comprehensive curriculum vitae; (3) statement on how the candidate, personally and professionally, can contribute to the mission, vision, and values of Seattle University; (4) names and contact information for three professional references who can address the candidate's experience and ability pertinent to the position. (Letters may be solicited upon submission of application).

Application review begins immediately. Open until filled.

Founded in 1891, Seattle University is a Jesuit Catholic university located on a beautiful campus of more than 50 acres in the dynamic heart of Seattle. Our diverse and driven population is made up of more than 7,200 students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs within eight schools and colleges. Seattle University is an equal opportunity employer.

In support of its pursuit of academic and scholarly excellence, Seattle University is committed to creating a diverse community of students, faculty and staff that is dedicated to the fundamental principles of equal opportunity and treatment in education and employment regardless of age, color, disability, gender identity, national origin, political ideology, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status. The university encourages applications from, and nominations of, individuals who will further enrich the diversity of our educational community.

Compensation at a Glance:

Seattle University has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting. The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information, and not based on a candidate's gender or any other protected status.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. Seattle University provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your total compensation package.

Benefits at a Glance

Consistent with its fundamental Jesuit values, Seattle University offers a wide range of benefits designed to care for the whole person. Choose from three different medical plans, a dental, and vision insurance programs. Protect your income with life, short & long-term disability coverage. Plan for your future with up to a 10% employer contribution for retirement benefits, comprised of a 5% non elective employer contribution and an additional dollar-for-dollar match of your voluntary contributions up to a maximum of 5%. You may also take advantage of 100% paid tuition benefits for the employee and dependents, a subsidized transportation benefit, a wellness program with free access to an onsite fitness facility, and a wide variety of campus events. Enjoy a generous holiday schedule, including a paid Holiday break closure in December, and paid sick leave. For more information explore the Benefits website at: https://www.seattleu.edu/hr/benefits/